As the sun begins to warm the air and gardens burst into bloom, I find myself craving fresh, vibrant meals that celebrate the season. That’s when I decided to whip up this delightful Spring Roll Salad with Creamy Peanut Dressing. It’s not just food; it’s a lively medley of crispy vegetables and fragrant herbs, each colorful bite carrying the essence of summer.

Imagine the satisfying crunch of julienned cucumbers mingling with the sweetness of shredded carrots, all blanketed in a creamy peanut dressing that’s rich yet refreshingly light. When I first tossed this salad together, it felt like the perfect antidote to the heaviness of takeout and fast food. I love how customizable it is—each ingredient can be swapped according to your taste or pantry stock, making it the perfect go-to dish for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side or a light main course, this salad will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this colorful plate of goodness!

Why love this Spring Roll Salad?

Versatile: This salad is your canvas; feel free to customize with seasonal veggies!
Healthy & Fresh: Packed with crisp vegetables, it offers a guilt-free, nutritious meal option.
Quick & Easy: Simple steps mean you can whip it up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: The vibrant colors and flavors will make it a hit at gatherings or potlucks.
Delicious Dressing: The creamy peanut dressing takes it to the next level, providing rich, savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the fresh ingredients. If you’re into creamy delights, you might also enjoy my Peanut Butter Pie.

Spring Roll Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Rice noodles – The base of the salad that provides a soft texture; try soba noodles as a gluten-free option.
• Shredded lettuce – Adds a crunchy, refreshing element that balances the other textures.
• Shredded carrots – Contributes natural sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
• Cucumber (julienned) – Provides a delightful crunch, making each bite refreshing.
• Fresh cilantro (chopped) – Imparts a bright, herbaceous flavor that elevates the salad.
• Fresh mint leaves (chopped) – Adds coolness and aromatic freshness, perfect for warmer days.
• Chopped peanuts – Offers a satisfying crunch and adds nutty flavor to the dish.
• Red bell pepper (thinly sliced) – Brings sweetness, tang, and beautiful color to your spring roll salad.
• Green onions (sliced) – Adds a mild onion flavor that complements the freshness of the salad.

For the Dressing
• Hoisin sauce – Provides sweetness and umami, integral for the creamy peanut dressing.
• Peanut butter – The star ingredient that makes the dressing rich and creamy; look for natural varieties for a healthier option.
• Soy sauce – Delivers savory depth to the dressing, perfect for balancing flavors.
• Rice vinegar – Adds a touch of light acidity, enhancing the overall taste profile.
• Lime juice – Brings bright tanginess and freshness to the dressing.
• Sesame oil – Adds a toasty flavor that contributes to the dressing’s complexity.
• Sugar – Balances the savory elements and brings all the flavors together.
• Garlic (minced) – Provides aromatic flavor, crucial for a robust dressing.
• Ginger (grated) – Offers warmth and brightness, enhancing the overall savor.
• Chili flakes – For an added kick of heat; adjust to your spice preference for this spring roll salad with peanut dressing.

How to Make Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing

Boil water in a pot and cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions, typically for about 5-7 minutes. They should be tender but not mushy.
Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold running water to stop the cooking process. This keeps them fresh and prevents clumping.
Set aside the drained noodles and let them cool while you prepare the salad.
Combine the shredded lettuce, carrots, julienned cucumber, chopped cilantro, mint, peanuts, sliced red bell pepper, and green onions in a large mixing bowl.
Toss gently to mix all the colorful veggies and herbs together. Ensure everything is evenly distributed for balanced bites.
Whisk together hoisin sauce, peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chili flakes in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy.
Adjust the seasoning of the dressing by adding extra lime juice or soy sauce, depending on your taste preference.
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Incorporate the cooled rice noodles into the salad and mix again so that the noodles are well-coated with dressing.
Serve immediately, garnishing with additional peanuts, cilantro, and mint leaves for added flavor and visual appeal.

Optional: For a bit of zest, sprinkle some lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the salad.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Spring Roll Salad

Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to maintain the freshness and crunch of the vegetables.
Freezer: It is not recommended to freeze the Spring Roll Salad as the texture of the veggies and noodles will change upon thawing.
Reheating: For any refrigerated leftovers, serve chilled or at room temperature. If you want a warm dish, consider lightly sautéing the mixture in a pan for a quick warm-up, but be cautious not to overcook.
Meal Prep Tip: To enjoy this salad all week, pre-chop your vegetables and store them in individual containers, keeping the peanut dressing separate for freshness until you’re ready to eat.

What to Serve with Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing?

Looking to create a vibrant, delightful meal around your refreshing Spring Roll Salad?

Grilled Chicken: Juicy and tender, grilled chicken adds satisfying protein that pairs beautifully with the fresh flavors of the salad.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These delicious appetizers complement the salad’s ingredients perfectly, creating a delightful texture contrast in your meal.
Chilled Mango Soup: A sweet, refreshing soup enhances the tropical vibes and coolness, balancing the spicy elements of the salad’s dressing.
Toasted Baguette Slices: The crunchy texture of toasted baguette adds another layer, perfect for mopping up any extra peanut dressing.
Fresh Fruit Platter: A mix of berries, melons, and citrus offers a naturally sweet contrast to the salad’s savory notes, delighting your taste buds.
Coconut Thai Iced Tea: This creamy, lightly sweet drink pairs well with the salad while enhancing its Asian-inspired flavors.
Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, swap in spiralized zucchini for a twist that adds flavor and additional freshness to the meal.
Sesame-Ginger Edamame: A protein-rich side that echoes the Asian theme, bringing a satisfying, nutty flavor and delightful texture contrast.
Peanut Butter Cookie Bites: End your meal with a sweet nod to the main dish, these bites offer that familiar peanut taste in a delicious format.

Spring Roll Salad Variations

Feel free to mix things up and let your creativity shine in this delicious salad!

Noodle Swap: Substitute rice noodles with vermicelli or soba for a different texture and flavor.
Veggie Medley: Use seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or radishes to keep it fresh and exciting.
Herb Fusion: Incorporate fresh basil or parsley in place of mint or cilantro for a unique flavor twist.
Nutty Delight: Add cashews or walnuts for an extra crunch and to enhance the nutty profile of the dish.
Protein Boost: Toss in grilled tofu, tempeh, or even shredded chicken for a satisfying source of protein.
Sweet Touch: Add mango or pineapple chunks for a delightful hint of sweetness that complements the salad beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Increase chili flakes or add a splash of sriracha to the dressing for those who crave extra heat.
Creamy Variation: Swap peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different creamy dimension.

Let your ingredient choices reflect the season, your mood, or what you have on hand, making each salad a delightful experience!

Expert Tips for Spring Roll Salad

Fresh Is Best: Use fresh vegetables and herbs for the most vibrant flavor; wilted items will dull the dish’s appeal.
Chill the Noodles: Rinse noodles under cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and keep them firm for the salad.
Dressing Storage: If meal-prepping, store the Spring Roll Salad with Peanut Dressing and salad base separately to maintain freshness and texture.
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies or your favorites. Additions like avocado or grilled shrimp can elevate your salad.
Balance Flavors: Adjust the dressing by tasting for sweet, salty, and tangy balance; a little more lime or soy sauce can make a big difference.

Spring Roll Salad with Creamy Peanut Dressing Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for my Spring Roll Salad?
Absolutely! For a vibrant salad, choose vegetables that are fresh and crisp. Look for rice noodles that are smooth and have no dark spots, while firm cucumbers should have a bright green color with no blemishes. Fresh herbs, like cilantro and mint, should be bright and fragrant, without any wilting.

How should I store leftover Spring Roll Salad with Creamy Peanut Dressing?
To maintain the freshness and crunch, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to store the dressing separately to prevent sogginess and keep the vegetables crisp.

Can I freeze the Spring Roll Salad?
I recommend against freezing this salad, as the texture of the fresh vegetables and rice noodles will suffer once thawed. If you have leftover dressing, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just pour it into an airtight container, and when you’re ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

What can I do if my dressing turns out too thick?
Very! If your peanut dressing is too thick, simply add a tablespoon of warm water or more lime juice and whisk until you reach your desired consistency. This will help you achieve a smooth, pourable dressing that complements your salad beautifully.

Are there any dietary considerations or allergens I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This salad is gluten-free-friendly if you opt for gluten-free soy sauce. If you have nut allergies, consider replacing the peanut butter with a seed butter, like sunflower seed butter. Always double-check the ingredient labels, especially for store-bought sauces like hoisin and soy sauce, as they can contain hidden allergens.

Can I add protein to my Spring Roll Salad?
Yes, indeed! For an added nutritional boost, feel free to include grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, marinated and grilled tofu is a fantastic option that will blend perfectly with the salad. I often add shrimp for a delightful twist, and it makes the salad even more filling!